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Eustis, FL - A Florida man has been charged with allegedly attempting to deliver fentanyl and contraband into federal prisons using drones.
According to federal authorities, James Key III, 45, of Eustis, Florida, was charged Friday with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
Court documents allege that Key worked with inmates at multiple Federal Bureau of Prisons facilities, including the Atwater prison in California, as well as prisons in Florida and South Carolina.
Prosecutors claim that between December 16, 2024, and August 17, 2025, Key allegedly collaborated with prisoners to introduce illegal drugs and unauthorized cellphones into prison yards.
The scheme reportedly involved applying fentanyl to sheets of paper, bundling the paper, concealing it in synthetic grass, and delivering it via drones.
If convicted, Key faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million.
Federal authorities emphasize that smuggling drugs and contraband into correctional facilities poses serious security and safety risks for both inmates and staff.
Investigators are reportedly continuing to examine whether Key had additional accomplices and whether other prison facilities were targeted beyond those listed in court filings.
U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced the case underscores the increasing attention federal agencies are giving to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in illegal smuggling operations.
Authorities say that drone-assisted smuggling of narcotics and contraband into prisons is a growing concern nationwide, prompting ongoing investigations and federal enforcement efforts.